Historic victory: Croatia advances to the World Cup final

The “Fiery Ones” (Vatreni) ended England’s dreams of winning a second title in the semi-finals of the tournament in Russia. Mario Mandzukic scored the decisive goal for the Croatians in the 2th minute in the 1-109 win after extra time at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium on Wednesday evening.

Great fighting spirit after an early deficit After 45 minutes and an early free-kick goal from Kieran Trippier in the 5th minute, England were well on course for their first World Cup final since their legendary success in 1966. The Croatians rewarded themselves for an improvement in performance with the equalizer through Ivan Perisic (68. ), who poked a cross from Vrsaljko (with a high foot) over the line. Just a little later the Inter-Legionnaire also hit the post. Harry Kane (left) was only able to make a few points in England's attack. © APA/afp / FRANCK FIFE

Since there were no more goals in regular time, extra time was necessary. Here, Croatia striker Mario Mandzukic was initially thwarted by England goalie Pickford's knee (105th), before he sent the whole of Croatia into ecstasy after the last break: After a header from Perisic, Mandzukic escaped from the English defense and finished (109th) - 2:1 and the victory was perfect.

On Sunday (17.00 p.m. CEST) France awaits again in the final at the Luschniki Stadium. England will only play for third place against Belgium on Saturday. 20 years after third place in France in 1998, the Croatians are reaching for the World Cup trophy for the first time. They completed 360 minutes in the eighth, quarter and now semi-finals. In terms of minutes played, one match more than opponents France.

Football

Italy

International leagues

International

Winter sports

Tennis

Other sports

Motorsport

Cycling

Watersports

Events

Favorites

Historic victory: Croatia advances to the World Cup final

Croatia caused a big sensation at the World Cup in Russia and reached the World Cup final for the first time in history.

Suggestions

Comments (0)